Natural Regions, Shikoku

Ishizuchi, Shikoku island, coastal plains, Honshu, tallest peak

The Shikoku region consists of Shikoku, the smallest of Japanís four main islands, and many small surrounding islands. Relatively low but steep mountains cover most of Shikoku island. The tallest peak on the island (and in the region) is Mount Ishizuchi at 1,982 km (6,503 ft). Shikokuís mountainous terrain has limited settlement primarily to coastal plains on the northern shore along the Inland Sea. There, the towns of Matsuyama and Takamatsu serve as important regional commercial and industrial centers. The Kochi Plain, a zone of mild winters in the southern part of Shikoku island, supports citrus fruits and various vegetables. The opening of three separate bridge systems between Shikoku and Honshu since 1988 has reduced the regionís isolation. Shikoku includes the prefectures of Kagawa, Tokushima, Ehime, and Kochi.